Chase the Northern Lights
With the Winter Solstice quickly approaching, the shortest day of the year does not need to be spent inside hiding from the elements. Instead, Booking.com is challenging you to go far north to watch the galaxy ignite into an astounding light show!
Spreading across eight countries, we’ve hand-picked our most dazzling Aurora-hunting spots for you to marvel in your winter wonderland. The quest to see the Northern Lights is one of the most magical journeys on Earth – it’s time to turn this dream into a reality!
TOP TIPS! When to go: The long dark nights of winter have their perks! Book when the nights are the longest to give yourself maximum viewing hours – October to February is the best time to go.
What to wear: Balacava-chic is the outfit du jour! Stock up on thermals, knitwear and fleece to keep yourself warm in those sub-zero temperatures.
ALASKA
Hotel Alyeska: stay in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. With breathtaking scenery and wildlife, you can fill your days with endless activities before settling in for a night under the spectacular skies.
Price: £140 per night (standard double room)
CANADA
Northern Lights Resort & Spa: situated close to the city of Whitehorse, this hotel offers the perfect setting for the whole family to get out into the wilderness to enjoy panoramic views of the Aurora Borealis.
Price: £110 per night (Queen room, inc breakfast)
Blachford Lake Lodge: only accessible by bush plane flights, this lodge is the perfect isolated escape. Watch the dancing skies from the front porch of your own cozy cottage.
Price: £ £2,191 (Queen room, 2 nights, all inclusive)
GREENLAND
Hotel Arctic: located on the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this hotel is so far north that daylight will be minimal. Northern light chasing is at at its best here – be sure to pack your woolies!
Price: £217 (double room, inc breakfast)
ICELAND
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina: stay in central Rekjavik and enjoy whale watching by day; and chase the lights by night. It’s all possible from this northern city!
Price: £161 (double room, inc breakfast)
NORWAY
Basecamp Hotel: experience the Arctic Circle in a traditional trapper’s lodge. The Cognac Attic boasts a glass ceiling perfect for guests to view the mesmerizing Northern Lights without freezing in the elements.
Price: £244 (suite, inc breakfast)
SWEDEN
Camp Ripan: surrounded by mountain nature, this family-run hotel in the north of Sweden will give you a truly Nordic experience. Try ice fishing or go dog sledding during the day, ahead of spending your evening under the multi-colored sky.
Price: £164 (chalet, inc breakfast)
RUSSIA
Azimut Hotel Murmansk: located in the world’s biggest Arctic city and surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Stay during the dark winter months and book an excursion to watch the lights sparkle over the snow-covered landscape.
Price: £72 (double room, inc breakfast)
